The Weimaraner is a versatile German hunting breed known for its athleticism and loyalty. They are intelligent, energetic dogs that require significant exercise and consistent training to thrive, making them suitable for active owners.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in the early 19th century in Germany for hunting big game like boar and deer; later used for hunting birds and smaller game; versatile hunting dog and family companion.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
23-25 inches (58-64 cm)
55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)
Male
25-27 inches (64-69 cm)
70-90 pounds (32-41 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Silver gray, mouse gray, or roe gray, transitioning to shades between these; often a small white marking on the chest.
Type
Short and smooth, or long and soft with a slight wave or feathering.
Length
Short or long.
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate for short-haired; Long-haired can shed more.
Grooming
Weekly for short-haired; More frequent for long-haired.
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Moderate length, balanced to the body size, with a slight stop.
Skull
Slightly arched; sagittal line present
Ears
Broad and fairly long, set high, rounded at the tip, hanging down.
Eyes
Amber, light to dark; Blue to grey in puppies
Nose
Dark gray
Muzzle
Strong and powerful; moderate depth
Teeth
Scissors bite
Neck
Moderately long and muscular
Forequarters
Well angulated
Fore Legs
Straight and strong
Hindquarters
Well angulated
Hind Legs
Muscular and strong
Feet
Compact and webbed; arched toes
Tail
Docked in some countries, set on a level with the back
Gait
Smooth, powerful, and ground-covering
Temperament
Intelligent, energetic, friendly, courageous, and eager to please; Can be sensitive; requires firm and consistent training.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate with family
Good with Children
Generally good with children, especially when raised with them; may be too boisterous with small children.
Good with Dogs
Good with other dogs, especially with early socialization; can be dominant with other male dogs.
Good with Cats
Can be good with cats if raised with them, otherwise may chase.
Openness to Strangers
Reserved with strangers; not typically aggressive.
Playfulness Level
Very playful
Protective Nature
Moderately protective
Adaptability Level
Adapts well to change but thrives on routine
Working Roles
Hunting, pointing, retrieving, search and rescue, detection, and family companion.
Exercise Needs
High; requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation; prone to destructive behavior if under-exercised.
Health
Generally healthy but prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, hypothyroidism, and some eye conditions; may be prone to separation anxiety.
Additional Notes
Needs early socialization and training; Requires a lot of attention and is not suited for sedentary owners; thrives with consistent and positive reinforcement.